STACK is developing a new way to design and build curved architectural surfaces so they can be produced, transported and assembled with less material, waste and cost. Today, complex freeform architectural elements often require bespoke solutions, heavy logistics and time-consuming installation. STACK introduces and investigates the concept of surface stackability: breaking surfaces into families of elements that stack and nest tightly, can be fabricated efficiently, shipped compactly, and reassembled precisely.
The project’s overall objectives are to:
* establish the mathematical foundations of surface stackability and of 3D elastica swept surfaces (curves and surfaces governed by elastic energy);
* translate these foundations into a computational design toolchain (interoperable with common AEC software) that lets designers create, analyze and optimize stackable geometries;
* validate the approach through digital fabrication experiments and an architectural demonstrator;
* and prepare for uptake through interdisciplinary integration, targeted dissemination, intellectual property protection, and collaboration with related EU projects.
By enabling stackable freeform geometries, STACK aims to cut material use and transport volume, simplify site assembly, and open new design freedom aligned with the EU’s Green Deal, and the New European Bauhaus initiative. The expected impacts include lower embodied carbon through efficient material use, better logistics through nested components, and new digital workflows that connect design intent to fabrication and quality control.
